Description
A simple, forgiving one-pan dinner featuring ground beef, black beans, and rice. This high-protein meal is beginner-proof, requires minimal cleanup, and comes together in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 can (15oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Mexican blend, optional)
- 1/2 cup salsa (optional)
Instructions
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic, then set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it into small crumbles. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned, draining excess grease if necessary.
- Add the diced onion to the beef and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and taco seasoning, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the uncooked rice and stir for 1 minute to toast it in the beef fat. Add the water or broth and stir to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Check the rice for tenderness. If needed, add a splash of water and cover for 5 more minutes. Stir in the drained black beans and let sit covered for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and taste for salt. Top with shredded cheese and salsa before serving.
Notes
Do not rush browning the beef for better flavor. Toasting the rice before adding liquid prevents mushiness. Keep the lid on during simmering to trap steam. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow rice to firm up. Use low-sodium beans to control salt intake.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 8
- Protein: 30
Keywords: ground beef skillet, black beans and rice, high protein dinner, one pan meal, easy dinner, forgiving recipe, gluten-free option